The POC Spine Vest protector is a light weight stretchy mesh vest with kidney belt (that can be taken off) that holds close to your spin a flexible plastic pad that hardens on impact. Basically like the d3o material in the SixSixOne knee and elbow guards, or some Session gear. The POC stuff is a bit different. POC calls it PVD, Visco-Elastic Polymer Dough. Much thicker, softer, and dual density. Harder right along the spine and softer along the sides. Continue reading →

User Reviews

Submitted by
rdhfreethought
a Downhiller
from Boulder, CO (PNW transplant)

Date Reviewed: November 13, 2009

Strengths: Best on the market, nothing comes close

Weaknesses: Fit was a bit off, for my torso. Price.

Bottom Line:

I bought this chest protector after seeing the quality of the POC Helmet I purchased. I have had the opportunity to crash wearing this gear at Whistler Bike Park, Keystone, and Winter Park. I believe this is the best product money can buy. It offers the best protection (certified at Level 2 (“High performance”) of the motor cycle standard EN 1621-2), its the most comfortable, and its the coolest with excellent breathability. I even wore this on a 100mi race this summer. The only problem was that I think the medical folks they have on staff are trying to protect C1-C7, as I have read at other sites. As a physician myself, I think that the extra discomfort of the spine protector extending to the neck region and hitting the bottom of the helmet on certain jumps was more dangerous than not having the protection there. Thankfully, I was able to return for a smaller size (6'1 and I wear a medium). That caveat aside, it is the best product money can buy.

Related Spine Vest Forum Posts

Hello (and merry christmas)
I have my eyes on the Ergon BC2. Looks nice, comfy and robust.
However, sometimes I will wear it while I'm also wearing a POC Spine Protection Vest. Works fine with my Camelbak Mule - but since the Ergon is build up with a frame, I was wondering how it would fit tog ... Read More »